Jewelry You're Not Wearing? Reset It!

I have an incredible, 100+-year-old diamond ring that belonged to my great-grandmother that I never wear. But I have never considered selling it or resetting it into something wearable.  That is, until I asked jewelry re-designer Amy Certilman of The Perfect Setting about it.

"As much as I adore fine estate and period jewelry, the bottom line is that I provide my clients with information to make an informed decision, while supporting the notion that the piece belongs to them and is theirs to do what they would like with it," said Amy.

Think of Amy Certilman, designer and owner of The Perfect Setting, as your own personal jewelry stylist. One who can help advise you which pieces need to be kept, resold or reset. And it's the resets that are truly inspiring.

The New York native came to the jewelry biz after a stints as an investment banker and a stay-at-home mom. Amy started an accessories and gift business that was expanded to include jewelry. But it was the redesign of her divorced sister's wedding set that really kicked off the business and helped Amy carve a niche as a jewelry re-designer.

If you have anything in your jewelry box that you are not wearing (and don't we all at this age?) then maybe it's time to rethink it. Amy says. "Any piece that is not being worn should be considered for a redesign."

Not sure where to start? The initial consultation (which is free) consists of emailed photos of the pieces that you aren't wearing. "We then speak via the telephone, while both on our computers, and discuss the details of the project(s)," Amy says. "If a face-to-face meeting is not possible then their jewelry is sent to me with the appropriate amount of insurance."

If you've avoided resetting a piece because of cost, you might want to reconsider. "In and of itself,resetting a stone is cost-effective in that the lion's share of the expense of fine jewelry is the stone," Amy says. "As for the setting, simple and classic designs will usually be less expensive as there are plenty of ready-made settings at various weights to choose from."

Amy also keeps the cost down by looking for "creative ways to integrate existing jewelry into a design or take any unworn gold and jewelry which can be sold (including the existing setting) to offset the cost of the new jewelry," she said. "There have been numerous occasions when I have presented a client with a new piece of jewelry and a check."

One of the most appealing things about Amy Certilman's The Perfect Setting website, which bowed in 2010, is the wonderful array of before and after pics. Every piece has a story, from the simple fixes like a broken add-a-bead necklace (I think I still have one of those somewhere) that was transformed to a cool macramé bead bracelet to the elaborate (a three stone engagement ring turned into a stunning ring and earrings.)

A style that Amy has featured several times is turning an unused piece — like an old cocktail ring or wedding set — into a pendant with an enhancer that can the be worn on a chain, cord or pearls for a very versatile look.

"I first saw the power of resetting stones when I delivered jewelry to a client who was recently divorced," Amy says about her reworked jewelry. "I have found that same feeling resonates regardless of marital status…when I deliver a piece of jewelry, my clients express a tremendous sense of happiness."

Watch how happy Amy Certilman makes one woman on the Nate Berkus Show  by presenting her with a remade piece. Watch the clip:

Get more info about The Perfect Setting and follow Amy Certilman on Facebook.